June 11, 2009

HAVE YOUR HOME EVALUATED FOR ENERGY PERFORMANCE

Posted to Theresa Larsen

Have your energy bills been too high or increasing and you cannot determine the cause?

You can look into the possibility of an energy audit of your residence or business place to find the possible culprits, and get suggestions for energy saving measures to cut the costs. It is possible to engage a certified consultant to inspect your home, and identify changes that could be put in place to improve the situation. The inspector would examine the structure for leakage sites such as chimney flues, soil stacks, plumbing chaces, partition walls, dropped soffits, recessed lights, doors, windows, and others. Floor, ceiling and basement areas would be analyzed for air infiltration, as well as attic spaces and insulation. Sealing the sources of air infiltration will not only result in lower monthly bills, but will reduce drafts, insect and pest infestation, and improve general comfort. The inspector would likely also evaluate the ventilation and moisture climate of the home or business, and look into the combustion safety of water heaters, dryers, furnaces, etc. The assessment should include the interior and the exterior of the building. The owner should be given a report identifying the problem spots, with pictures and recommendations for changes that should improve the energy conservation. Following even some of the advice should result in better energy performance and hopefully lower monthly bills.

Posted by: Nancy Lehman Lael Vandenburgh

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